WFB- Initial Impressionss

The first, probably most, noteworthy stylistic element in the novel is the use of ellipses. I think this stylistic element only adds to the entertainment of the book. The plot moves rapidly since within every chapter there are multiple changes of setting, characters etc. The length of these shifts is varied. At certain times, these shifts in time are longer, whereas other times they are only one page long. Waiting for the Barbarians has easily been the simplest book––in terms of readability––all semester. Although the novel has the occasional three-syllable word, the text is largely understandable without any assistance. The first person narrator seems to be pretty reliable; he is able to describe in detail what he perceives is happening and how it affects him.

The most interesting aspect of the novel so far––for me–– is the Magistrate’s opinion of the barbarians and how that frames the context for the other elements of the story. His view of the differences between the people from the Empire and the barbarians certainly differs from the norm. First, he tells us of his distaste when the barbarians try to deal with the people from the empire: “…the settlers litany of prejudice: that barbarians are lazy, immoral, filthy, stupid.” Furthermore, the Magistrate has a memorable discussion with the young, arrogant graduate from the War College. Here the Magistrate defends the barbarians, much to the disgust of the army conscript. However, his respect for the barbarians translates in an odd manner with the barbarians’ women. The almost blind woman that is his concubine is the most striking example. Also, he has a mistress (or whatever you want to call her) in the motel. His behaviors with respect to these relationships do not seem to be that respectful. Although he respects the woman that lives with him, he is not faithful to her.